Experience the Once-in-a-Lifetime spectacle of Coral Spawning this Easter in the Maldives

Every year following the full moon, millions of coral across the Maldives simultaneously spawn and release their eggs creating an awe-inspiring, natural phenomenon and sight to behold. This year the mass coral spawning event is expectedto occur during the week after the full moon on March 23rd 2016.

Guests who visit the Maldives during Easter will be able to participate in and observe this spectacle during a special coral spawning night safari arranged by Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru. Those who prefer to stay on dry land can watch it directly on the beach via a webcam placed on the house reef.

To celebrate the annual event this year, Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru and nearby sister resorts, Angsana Ihuru and Angsana Velavaru, will arrange full moon dinner and drinks on their beaches for guests to appreciate this natural and rare wonder.

Blackfoot Anemone Fish, Angsana Ihuru

Unknown to science until 1982, coral spawning is an incredible sight which can be detected from space, and one that is worthy of any discerning travellers’ ‘to do’ list. The exact timing of the event is still a mystery and witnessing the event requires patience and a spot of luck. Corals release their precious cargo into the water at night during the days following the March full moon but only if ocean temperatures, the tide and wind conditions are favourable.

Dr. Steven Newman, Director of Marine Conservation for Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts, explains: “To have the opportunity to dive or snorkel when the coral spawning is taking place is an extraordinary experience. It only happens once a year and the fact that is difficult to predetermine exactly its timing, makes it even more incredible, it’s a spectacle worthy of anyone’s bucket list”. Dr. Newman continues: “Reproduction is governed by the tide, and usually we can see the spawning take place an hour or so after sunset, however in some cases we may have to wait until midnight, so patience is a virtue but it’s well worth the wait!”

“The natural environment and conservation of our fragile marine ecosystem are priority for us here in the Maldives, especially during this El Nino year. At our Marine Laboratory, we arrange daily activities where our guests have the opportunity to learn about the marine environment and how we can all work together to create a healthy marine ecosystem for everyone to enjoy. Our activities in connection to the coral spawning are a part of our ongoing CSR programmes at Banyan Tree and one of the highlights of the year”, Dr. Newman concludes.

Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru

Other marine environmental activities that guests can participate in at the three hotels in the Maldives include cleaning and planting of corals to support a healthy marine habitat, as well as conservation efforts to protect indigenous turtles.

The coral spawning diving at Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru costs from USD$60 per person.